Unforgettable Day Trips 
from the Tims Ford Lake Area

Nestled within the scenic southern Middle Tennessee, The Tims Ford Lake Area serves as a gateway to a wealth of unique day-trip experiences.

Its central location and proximity to a variety of historical, cultural, and natural attractions make it an ideal base for day trips. This article provides a curated list of ten remarkable destinations within a hundred miles radius of Tims Ford Lake, each holding its unique charm and appeal.

For distance, we're using Winchester, TN as a starting point.

Things to Do in the Tims Ford Lake Area?

See our list of things to do in the Tims Ford Lake Area

A Trip to Falls Mill in Belvedere TN from Winchester TN

Falls Mill is a step back in time to over 100 years ago into this still working grist mill -- There are other historic buildings onsite including one that the owners live in.  There's a one room school house that has been restored.  You can do a self walking tour of the mill and chat with the owners who are always there.  Once you're done with the inside, walk down to the river and view the Mill from below.  Bring a picnic and enjoy the flowing water, moving water wheel, and amazingly serene site.

On your drive to Falls Mill, make sure to stop by the Swiss Pantry to grab a sandwich and sweet treat for enjoying at Falls Mill.

Belvidere is just a short drive from Winchester TN

You can easily spend 2-3 hours here if you take it all in.  And relax.  It is just beautiful.

Falls Mill in Belvidere TN

A Trip to Chattanooga from Winchester TN

Chattanooga is first on our list, a vibrant city approximately 80 miles from Winchester. This stunning amalgamation of natural beauty and urban sophistication offers a treasure trove of activities for both nature enthusiasts and city dwellers alike. Visitors can explore the Tennessee Aquarium, enjoy exhilarating scenic views at Rock City, or embark on an underground adventure at Ruby Falls. For the epicurean traveler, Chattanooga boasts a vibrant dining scene spanning from Southern comfort food to international cuisine.

Rock City is quite an enjoyable experience.  The beautify and enjoyable walks between the gardens and rocks is surprisingly enjoyable.  And the views!

Chattanooga TN - Rock City - view south

The Chattanooga Aquarium is located downtown and conveniently located to restaurants and walking trails.  Very enjoyable -- make sure to get tickets in advance.

Chattanooga TN - aquarium 
stock photo

Ruby Falls is also on Lookout Mountain just like Rock City.  You go down an elevator into a cave, walk through the cave and eventually make it to the falls which are beautiful.  I've been to this a handful of times and have enjoyed it each time.

Chattanooga TN - Ruby Falls

A Trip To Nashville from Winchester TN

Travel 90 miles northwest, and you'll immerse yourself in the heart of country music in Nashville. This city's globally-renowned music scene is a paradise for music lovers. Live performances at the Grand Ole Opry and a tour of the historic Ryman Auditorium are must-sees. History and art buffs can marvel at The Parthenon, situated in Nashville's Centennial Park. Beyond its musical roots, Nashville offers an expansive culinary scene and diverse shopping opportunities, from boutique stores to expansive shopping centers.

The Nashville Parthenon Art Museum on Centennial Park.  The re-creation of the 42-foot statue Athena is the focus of the Parthenon just as it was in ancient Greece.

Nashville TN  Parthenon Art Museum

The Ryman Auditorium is known as the birthplace of country music in downtown Nashville.

Nashville TN Ryman Auditorium

A Trip To Huntsville, Alabama

About 60 miles south lies Huntsville, Alabama, also known as 'Rocket City,' known for its deep roots in American space exploration. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is an engaging tribute to the past, present, and future of space travel. For a different flavor of experience, the Huntsville Botanical Garden and Monte Sano State Park offer delightful outdoor spaces for family fun and relaxation. Huntsville also boasts a thriving arts scene, innovative eateries, and boutique shopping.

Huntsville Space and Rocket Center

A Trip to Lynchburg TN

Lynchburg, home of the world-famous Jack Daniel's Distillery, is only a short 20-mile drive away and a must-visit for whiskey connoisseurs. A guided tour of this legendary distillery takes you through the intricate whiskey-making process, from mashing and distilling to maturing in handcrafted barrels.

Jack Daniels Distillery - Lynchburg TN

Once you are done with the Jack Daniel Tour you can walk a short block to the downtown square for Lynchburg TN restaurants and shopping.  

Downtown Lynchburg TN

Go On A Local Distillery Tour

There are five local distilleries all within a short drive of each other -- of course if you are visiting these ensure you have a designated driver.

Lynchburg Distillery, Lynchburg TN

• Jack Daniels

  • Jack Daniels distillery is the most famous for the area and we discuss this above.  There are other things to do in Lynchburg as well.
    
    
    

• Lynchburg Distillery

  • Lynchburg Distillery is a smaller batch distillery just on the Lynchburg TN square.  They are also adjacent to the Lynchburg Winery.
    
    
    

• Branchwater Moonshine

  • Branchwater Distillery is a moonshine distillery located just one block off of the Winchester TN Square.
    
    
    

• George Dickel

  • George Dickel distillery is located in Tullahoma, TN.
    
    
    

• Nearest Green

  • The Nearest Green Distillery is located just a short drive away in Shelbyville.

Read more about a full day distillery tour by Tims Ford Lake.

Fall Creek Falls State Park

For waterfall enthusiasts, the Fall Creek Falls State Park, approximately 80 miles away, offers a breathtaking spectacle of natural beauty. Beyond the magnificent waterfalls, the park's extensive trail system invites hikers to immerse themselves in the Cumberland Plateau's flora and fauna.

Fall Creek Falls 

A Visit to Scottsboro, Alabama

Scottsboro, Alabama, approximately 50 miles away, is where the Unclaimed Baggage Center provides a unique shopping experience. Who knows what you'll find among the lost luggage—from designer clothing and electronics to unique artifacts from around the world.

Unclaimed Baggage Center

A visit to Cumberland Caverns

If you're a fan of spelunking, a 60-mile drive to McMinnville allows you to explore the Cumberland Caverns. The caverns boast over 32 miles of underground passages and offer guided tours of this mesmerizing subterranean world.

Cumberland Caverns

University of The South in Sewanee

Finally, just 20 miles away is the charming university town of Sewanee. Explore the beautiful campus of The University of the South, renowned for its neo-Gothic architecture, or take a hike in the surrounding natural areas.

University of the South in Sewanee

Amazing Hiking Paths in the Tims Ford Lake Area

There are countless hiking paths in the area to enjoy the great outdoors, maybe hike to a cave or waterfall.  Bring a picnic.  Relax.  

Check out our list of local hiking trails .

Hiking at Machine Falls in Tullahoma

The region around Tims Ford Lake is replete with a variety of day-trip destinations, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and adventure. Embarking on these journeys allows visitors to explore the richness of the Southern United States, creating memories that last a lifetime.